Agua Caliente Hot Springs Outdoor Pool
Agua Caliente County Park Hot Pool
Agua Caliente County Park Entrance
Agua Caliente Hot Springs Indoor Pool
Not far off the beaten path, near the south side of Anza Borrego Desert State Park lies 910 acres of Southern California desert beauty. Only one of the few hot springs in Southern California in this region. Agua Caliente County Park offers three naturally heated pools, diverse hiking trails and ample camping options.
Once a stop on the Butterfield Stage Coach route, settlers were able to rest their weary feet before continuing their journey. Operated by San Diego County it has become a favorite place for families. Be prepared for moderate crowds, especially during peak season. Day-use fees and camping fees apply.
Agua Caliente Hot Springs Pools
Two outdoor and one indoor natural mineral hot spring pools are available to suit everyone’s soaking needs. The outdoor pools are ideal for children and families. The glass-walled indoor therapeutic spa features Jacuzzi-style jets and adults-only times.
Relax in three distinct hot pools:
- Two outdoor pools: One caters to families with cooler temperatures, while the other offers a warmer soak (90°F).
- One indoor jacuzzi: Enjoy therapeutic jets and steamy temperatures reaching 102°F (adults only during specific hours).
- Mineral content: While not pure mineral water, the springs are known for their relaxing properties.
Locker rooms, private changing rooms and spring-fed heated showers are available.
Agua Caliente County Park Facilities
Sun yourself in between soaks on the provided lounge chairs scattered around the decks. Hikers will delight in the miles of trails. There is a small convenience store at the entrance to the park, but it is suggested to bring plenty of water and your own snacks.
Whether you are camping or traveling in RV mode, you are covered here! There are approximately 140 campsites, 30 RV spots with or without hookups and a large caravan area for group gatherings. Fees vary so be sure to check with the park. Holidays can be extremely busy and reservations are required.
Facilities:
- Well-maintained campground with RV and tent sites, some with hookups.
- Camping cabins with two beds and a bathroom.
- Bathhouses with showers and restrooms.
- Paved parking lot.
- No spa, massage, or restaurant on-site, but nearby Julian offers dining options.
- Grocery store and gas station available in Julian (12 miles away).
Additional Considerations
- Family-friendly: Yes, with designated pools and campgrounds.
- Pet-friendly: No pets are allowed on trails or pool decks.
Are Agua Caliente County Park hot springs clothing optional?
No. Swimsuits are required in all pools at all times.
Access and Usage Fees
Fees vary depending on the season and type of accommodation. Day-use parking is $3. Pool entry (for non-campers) is $3 per person.
Hours:
- Park Hours: Day-use – 9:30 a.m. to sunset, daily; Camping – 24 hours/day. Open Labor Day weekend to Memorial Day.
- Indoor Pool Hours: 10:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. every day: Adults (21+) and kids (14+)
- 9:30 – 10:30 a.m. every day: Adults only
- 6 – 9 p.m. Friday – Saturday: Adult campers only
- Outdoor Pool Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m. every day: All ages
- 6 – 9 p.m. Friday – Saturday: All ages, campers only
- Children’s Pool Hours: 9:30 a.m. – 5 p.m., every day: All ages
History
Indigenous Kumeyaay people first utilized the springs for their healing properties. Spanish explorers later discovered them, and the site served as a rest stop for the Butterfield Stagecoach route. Today, San Diego County Parks manages the park.
Seasonal Access
Open Labor Day weekend to Memorial Day. Winter driving conditions require caution due to potential snow and ice. Summer wildfires can occasionally impact access.
What is the best time of year to visit Agua Caliente County Park hot springs?
Fall and spring offer the most comfortable soaking temperatures.
Nearby Attractions
What is there to do near Agua Caliente County Park hot springs?
- Julian: Charming mountain town with apple pie shops and wineries.
- Anza-Borrego Desert State Park: Vast desert landscape with diverse flora and fauna.
- Vallecito Mountain: Hiking and scenic views.
- Pinyon Mountain: Hiking and rock climbing.
Agua Caliente Hot Springs Soak Stats:
Elevation: 1,350 ft
Season: All (best in fall and spring)
GPS coordinates: 33°13’06″N 116°38’05″W
Map quad: Julian, CA 7.5′ USGS
Temperature range: 90°F – 102°F
Water clarity: Moderate
Family-friendly: Yes
Pet-friendly: No
Clothing-optional: No
Overnight accommodations: Yes (tent camping, RVs)
Cabins: Yes
Day-use access: Yes
Nearby hot springs: Oasis Hot Springs (STR)
Driving Directions to Agua Caliente Hot Springs
Agua Caliente County Park is approximately 111 miles from San Diego. From Interstate 8 head East and exit at Ocotillo. On Highway S2 drive North for about 22 miles where you’ll reach the park’s entrance.
Map
Julian
California
92036
United States
5 Reviews on “Agua Caliente County Park Hot Springs”
A very special place in the middle of the desert, about 2.5 hours drive on US-8 east. The water is perfect for soaking and relaxing. There are also outside cold pools for your enjoyment. Plenty showers and changing area. Everything is clean and well kept. The cost of $3 per person is definitely worth the visit
I like this place. We stayed overnight in the Cabin. The stars were shining beautifully at night.
Upon moving to the Julian area, there was a beautiful park, not so long ago. You could go relax enjoy the indoor spa and out door pools in nature. It was a serene place to relax and unwind. Over the years, it has become so crowded you can not even use the facilities indoors most days as to the capacity being wayyy over the allowed amount. It’s elbow to elbow, who enjoys that? The small outside pool is the only pool there is for smaller kids and toddlers who can’t possibly swim but would like to enjoy the pool too. It’s always packed. And the pool which would be nice is not big enough again for the capacity it holds. Ppl are using blow up chairs and lounge chairs and it makes it very unpleasant.
It used to be a ” quieter” place. There is so much beauty to enjoy but the loud noise just drowns out the peace.
Most of the sites are very small to fit a tent for 2 let alone a larger one, and so close to the road, almost considered a shoulder. When you park the car it is right against the car which is right next to your fire ring.. Very cramped.
So if your looking for a secluded state park over looking the beautiful desert mountains and a peaceful hot spring, this is not it.
I’m glad I’m local however, so I can check it out before going on less chaotic days. 9 years ago, I gave it a solid 5.
However now, as time has went on its dropped. I’m giving it a 3. I would give it a 2 but even with the problems it’s nice to go to cool off in the desert, it’s just no longer my top 5 favorite go to’s anymore, sadly disappointed …..
Sad to read this. My feelings mirror yours about how peaceful it was 15 years ago. Never anyone there.
It is impossible to get a reservation or info
I call many times. Never get an answer. Call back is rare.